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Fresh Air

Rob McElhenney On 'Welcome To Wrexham'

Jun 12, 2024
Rob McElhenney, the actor and co-owner of Wrexham AFC, shares his unique journey of purchasing a Welsh football club during the pandemic alongside Ryan Reynolds. He discusses the emotional ties between the team and the community, highlighting how lower-tier football can uplift towns in distress. The conversation also explores cultural exchanges between Wales and the U.S., revealing the heartfelt connections fans have through traditions like the Welsh National Anthem. McElhenney reflects on his creative evolution from 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' to exploring identity through storytelling.
44:14

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds aimed to bring hope to a struggling Welsh town through the purchase of a soccer team.
  • The documentary 'Welcome to Wrexham' emphasizes the socio-economic challenges faced by the community and the impact of tragic events.

Deep dives

The Purchase of Wrexham Football Club

Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds bought a struggling Welsh soccer team, aiming to uplift both the team and the town of Rexam. Enamored by the promotion and relegation system in British football leagues, they saw an opportunity to bring hope to a working-class town. Inspired by the impact sports have on communities, they aimed to energize the town by invigorating the soccer club as the focal point.

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